Dec 04, 2017

How a Day of Fighting Pirates Renews a Child's Strength

Leif is a shy but playful 5-year-old boy who loves to play make-believe. Through the pages of his favorite book series, “Okee Dokee,” he is able to join his favorite characters as they embark on voyages through time. From the Appalachian Mountains to the Wild West and down the Mississippi River, Leif is not confined to his hospital bed when he is immersed in his stories.

In his battle against leukemia, a special gift in the form of a wish-come-true helped Leif find strength. Leif had three requirements for his wish: there must be sand, a pirate ship and quality family time. A beach getaway to Hilton Head, N.C., was the perfect fit.

Ahoy matey! And welcome aboard the Black Dagger pirate ship.

Dressed in breeches, a bandana and mustache, Leif was ready to take on his mission as the first mate aboard the ship and take down the evil pirate Stinky Pete. Working closely with the crew, Leif shot water cannons at Stinky Pete, hoping to knock him off his ship. After countless hours of strategic strikes, Leif aimed just right and launched the final shot that took down the villainous pirate. The crew all sang in celebration. Leif was the hero.

“Watching him play with other kids who did not know he was sick was amazing,” said Emily, Leif’s mom.

On days when treatment is particularly difficult, Leif and his family look through their photo album, reminiscing about the fun times they had together on his wish. “We play ‘pirates’ daily, and the sword he brought home is a physical reminder of the inner strength and bravery Leif has,” Emily said.

That’s the imaginative power of a wish.

Thank you, Subaru, for bringing transformation and strength into Leif’s life by helping to make his wish come true.

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You and Subaru can make a difference! For every new Subaru vehicle sold or leased from now until Jan. 2, Subaru will donate $250 to the charity of the customer’s choice of participating charities. Make-A-Wish is one of them. Find a participating retailer and learn more today.

Not in the market for a new car, but you’d like to help transform lives through the power of a wish? Here are more ways you can help.

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Corporate sponsors such as Subaru are essential in helping Make-A-Wish accomplish its mission to grant the wish of every eligible child. Become a Make-A-Wish sponsor today.

On days when treatment is difficult, Leif and his family look through their wish trip photos, reminiscing about the fun times they had together.

Leif had three requirements for his wish: there must be sand, a pirate ship and quality family time.

Leif wished to go to Hilton Head and fight pirates.

Subaru's Share the Love event lasts until Jan. 2.

About this Blog

Wish Nation gives you a behind-the-scenes look at Make-A-Wish®. See how wishes come together and how they change lives forever. Hear directly from those who work or volunteer here, or those who have been transformed by a wish. And learn why we are so committed to someday granting the wish of every eligible child, every year.

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